1997 Chevrolet Corvette C5 Coupe (RHD)

The C5 Corvette - only the fifth incarnation of America's most popular sports car since its introduction in 1953 - was launched to rave reviews in 1997 and featured an all-new body that was both modern and much stronger than before. With a rear-mounted transaxle for the first time, the Corvette had near perfect 50:50 weight distribution and more interior space as well. The new alloy block LS1 V8, an engine Australian's have grown to love over the years, used state-of-the-art technology with a cast-alloy head and developed a massive 345 bhp at 5600 rpm along with 350 lb/ft of torque. There was a choice of two transmissions, including GM's own electronically-controlled four-speed manual or the Borg-Warner six-speed manual with a Getrag limited-slip diff. An Electronic Throttle Control system enabled a limitless range of throttle progression. The shapely and more aero coupe body featured a removable hardtop while the new twin-pod instrument panel recalled the Sting Rays of the Sixties in design. Despite being larger than the previous C4 Vette, Chevrolet's engineers actually managed to shed weight through the clever use of lightweight materials and more compact LS1 engine, performance improved markedly as a result. The quarter-mile was dispatched in 13.28 seconds and 0-100 km/h took just five seconds, making this one of the fastest cars on the road in 1997. The C5 Corvette was, arguably for the first time ever, a world class sports car genuinely capable of matching the best European cars on every level. Factory-backed C5-R racers took on the Porsches in major endurance races from 1999, scoring some significant wins. Today, the C5 offers unrivalled value for money in terms of looks, performance and reliability.